An environmental service worker at a Brooklyn hospital, known to his coworkers as “A.D.,” passed away at the age of 54 on December 28, 2009. His life, shortened by the capitalist health care system, was spent in service to the working class. He was on the frontline of making the hospital a safe and clean environment for the working-class patients. He gave his time and energy to PLP as well, helping to distribute CHALLENGE in the hospital and cooking food for May Day celebrations.

In mid-December, he began complaining of severe pain in his knees and so took time off and visited his doctor. As a diabetic, he was concerned about his blood uric acid, high levels of which can lead to gout. The day after he visited the doctor he had a stroke and was rushed to the very same hospital he gave many years of dedicated service. In the emergency room, the care he needed was not immediately given.  From the emergency room, he was admitted to a floor.  Even on the floor, the care he needed was not provided.  A.D. suffered another stroke; this time a code was called, summoning emergency attention from doctors and nurses, but it was too late.

At A.D.’s funeral service, a delegate from the hospital gave a passionate speech, reflecting on A.D.’s short life.  He spoke of his dedication to the job and his hope that he could provide a healthy environment for the patients. He will be sorely missed by his comrades here.